Fontainebleau Beach

Near Fontainebleau Beach, there are several excellent dining options. Rips On the Lake is a two-story seafood house offering stunning water views and a traditional seafood menu. Another popular choice is Crazy Pig Southern Kitchen, known for its Southern comfort food and cozy atmosphere. For seafood enthusiasts, Rusty Pelican - Mandeville provides a family-friendly dining experience with a variety of seafood dishes. Additionally, Bistro Byronz offers a relaxed spot for Creole fare and tartines. Lastly, Lago serves Mexican cuisine in a casual setting.

For accommodations near Fontainebleau Beach, visitors can consider the Blue Heron Bed and Breakfast, which offers charming suites with private porches in a country-chic setting. Another option is the Fontainebleau State Park itself, which provides cabins and campsites for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. For more conventional hotel stays, the Holiday Inn Express Covington-Madisonville and the Residence Inn New Orleans Covington/North Shore are nearby options offering modern amenities like pools and free breakfast.

Fontainebleau State Park offers a range of amenities to enhance visitor experiences. The park includes picnic tables, public restrooms, and showers, making it convenient for day-long visits or extended stays. Additionally, there are playgrounds and a water playground for children, ensuring that families have plenty of activities to enjoy. For those interested in staying overnight, the park provides campsites and cabins, some of which are located over the water, offering unique views of Lake Pontchartrain.

The park also features a visitor center where guests can learn about the history of the area and view handmade tools and furniture. Furthermore, the park's nature trails and access to the Tammany Trace bike path provide ample opportunities for hiking and biking.

Fontainebleau State Park offers a variety of activities for visitors. The park's nature trails are perfect for hiking and exploring the local flora and fauna. For water enthusiasts, kayaking and paddleboarding are popular activities on Lake Pontchartrain. The Tammany Trace, a 31-mile path, is ideal for biking or horseback riding. Additionally, the park's water playground is a great spot for kids to enjoy during warmer months. Fishing is also a common pastime, with the park featuring a fishing pier.

The park's scenic views and diverse wildlife make it a great spot for birdwatching, with over 400 species documented. Visitors can also explore the ruins of the old sugar mill, adding a historical dimension to their visit.

Fontainebleau State Park offers several accessibility features to ensure that all visitors can enjoy the facilities. The park includes wheelchair-accessible entrances, parking lots, and restrooms. Additionally, some of the cabins and campsites are designed to be accessible for visitors with disabilities. The park's trails and pathways are generally well-maintained, though some areas may be more challenging due to natural terrain.

Parking at Fontainebleau State Park is convenient, with on-site parking available for visitors. The park's parking lots are wheelchair accessible, ensuring that all visitors can easily access the facilities. While there is a small entrance fee to the park, parking itself is included in this cost. The proximity of parking areas to the beach and other amenities makes it easy for visitors to move around the park without needing to walk long distances.

Fontainebleau State Park has a rich history, having once been a sugar plantation under Bernard de Marigny de Mandeville. The park's name is inspired by the famous Fontainebleau Forest in France, reflecting the area's European influences. The park is also known for its diverse wildlife and is a popular spot for birdwatching, with over 400 species documented. Additionally, the park's scenic lakefront cabins are built on pilings over Lake Pontchartrain, offering a unique accommodation experience.

The park has become a popular location for film and television productions due to its picturesque setting.

One of the main attractions near Fontainebleau Beach is the historic sugar mill ruins within Fontainebleau State Park. Visitors can explore these remnants and learn about the area's past at the park's visitor center. The park itself is a significant attraction, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Nearby, the towns of Mandeville and Lacombe provide additional attractions, including local shops, restaurants, and cultural events.

For those interested in exploring further, New Orleans is just a short drive away, offering a wealth of cultural, historical, and entertainment options.